Compass Box Ultramarine
Sometimes a whisky stands out not just because of its flavours, but because of the story it tells. Compass Box Ultramarine is just such a whisky - a journey through time and flavour, where old cask maturation meets modern blending techniques. Inspired by ancient flavours, this whisky has a depth that captivates connoisseurs. The basis of this blend was matured once again before the final marriage, with a sherry butt aged for more than 30 years as the centrepiece and a formative proportion of 18.7% Caol Ila.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A complex aroma unfolds from the very first nosing: a light, ashy peat smoke rises, accompanied by a fresh citrus note reminiscent of lemon and tart grapefruit. But it doesn't stop at fruit and smoke - a hint of leather and herbs combine with hints of cereals and grassy notes that are almost reminiscent of a dense coniferous forest. A flash of sour apple and unripe plum resonate before creamy caramel and fine herbs round off the aroma.
Palate
The complexity continues on the palate. The whisky is oily and intense, with a full, almost creamy mouthfeel. Dried fruit dominates the opening before apple and pear come through. Roasted almonds provide a subtle nuttiness, while menthol provides a cool contrast. And then it's there again - the cold smoke, which is reminiscent of an extinguished ember and perfectly rounds off the symphony of flavours.
Finish
The finish is nothing less than spectacular. The blend remains present, with a voluminous depth that is reflected in red fruit flavours, sweet lemon and fine smoke. The wood is perfectly integrated, never over-present, but delicate and elegant.
Thoughts
Marcel 87/100
Ultramarine is like an exciting film for the senses – full of surprises that delight and leave you wanting more. The balance between smoky spice and fruity sweetness invites relaxed enjoyment without ever becoming dull. A blend that scores with character and charm – definitely a highlight for lovers with an adventurous spirit.
Sascha 89/100
Compass Box Ultramarine impresses with its precise structure and balanced complexity, harmoniously combining smoke, sherry, and citrus notes. The perfect integration of the 30-years sherry butts and Caol Ila component creates a profound, multi-layered blend with a long-lasting finish. A technically impressive example of modern blending artistry with clear balance and subtle cask maturation.
Value for Money: No rating
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Kirsch Import. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
Related Reviews
Blackwater The Full Irish (2024)
The Blackwater distillery from Ireland presents us here with a whisky at 48.5% vol. that stubbornly refuses to reveal its age. Perhaps it is still too young to talk about it? At this price, you would think that at least a few years could be written on the bottle, but no - the secret of eternal youth reigns here.
79/100
Teeling Rose Wine Cask (2022)
In 2015, the Teeling Distillery revived whiskey production in Dublin. With their craft distillery in the Liberties, they honor Irish tradition while bringing a modern twist. This Teeling Rosé Wine Cask is part of their innovative lineup – but what does it have to offer?
77/100
Compass Box Metropolis
The Compass Box Metropolis is intended to tell the story of urbanity. After 12 years pre-blended - married and returned to the cask - the whisky matured for a further 12 to 15 years in sherry casks. The ingredients are mainly from the Aberlour and Miltonduff distilleries, with a small proportion of Bowmore added for the industrial style.
84/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Compass Box Ultramarine not considered a classic single malt, even though it consists of Scottish whiskies?
Compass Box Ultramarine is a blend that combines various whiskies, including a high proportion of 18.7% Caol Ila and a 30-plus-years sherry butt as its core. It is not labeled as a single malt because it is composed of multiple distillates from different distilleries.
How does the finishing in a 30-plus-years sherry butt influence the taste of Ultramarine?
The finishing in the old sherry butt imparts a special depth and complexity to Ultramarine, with notes of dried fruits and sweet lemon shaping the aroma and finish, without losing the smoke or freshness.
What role does the Caol Ila component play in this blend and how does it present itself sensorially?
The 18.7% Caol Ila portion brings the characteristic ashy peat smoke to the blend, noticeable both on the nose and palate as cold smoke and extinguished embers, supporting the aromatic balance between smoke, fruit, and herbs.